Ivermectin and COVID-19
Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medicine developed to treat worms and parasites in animals. It has also been found useful in treating some human diseases related to worms and parasites.
But parasites are not the same as viruses, and COVID-19 is caused by a virus.
Neither the veterinary nor human drug versions of ivermectin have been deemed safe or effective for use in treating or preventing COVID-19.
Even the drug manufacturer has issued a statement that ivermectin should not be used for COVID-19.
There is no evidence that ivermectin benefits COVID-19 patients, but there are known harms. Ivermectin use has been associated with rash, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, abdominal pain, tremors, seizures and severe hepatitis (liver disease) requiring hospitalization.
The use of veterinary versions of ivermectin is especially risky because they may contain ingredients not used in medications for humans, and they are meant for use in much larger animals like horses and cattle. Consuming large amounts of veterinary ivermectin can cause poisoning and even lead to death.
Alberta Health Services’ Scientific Advisory Group has reviewed the existing studies using ivermectin in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The Scientific Advisory Group agrees with expert groups that include Health Canada, the Food and Drug Administration, World Health Organization and professional regulatory groups such as
the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta and the Alberta College of Pharmacy. There is no high-quality evidence that ivermectin is effective against COVID-19.
Visit www.ahs.ca/covid to get the facts on ivermectin, and to view the full report from the Scientific Advisory Group.
Vaccination remains our best means of preventing COVID-19. Our COVID-19 vaccines are safe, fully approved and have been studied in high quality trials of tens of thousands of people. All Albertans who are eligible are encouraged to book their shot by calling 811, visiting a walk-in clinic, contacting a doctor’s office or